Dog leash guidelines
Calgary is an "on-leash city," which means dogs must be leashed unless they are on their own property or in a designated off-leash area marked by signs.
Keeping your dog on a leash is crucial for their safety, the safety of others, and the protection of the environment. By following leash laws and using designated off-leash areas, you demonstrate responsible pet ownership and contribute to a safer, more enjoyable community for everyone.
Dog leash guidelines are regulated by the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, as well as the Parks and Pathways Bylaw.
Leash rules for dogs
- Dogs must be leashed at all times when not on an owner’s property.
- Dogs must be leashed at all times when on all pathways. Pathways include surfaces of asphalt, concrete, or brick.
Specific pathway rules include:- The leash cannot be more than 2 meters long.
- Dogs must stay on the right-hand side of the pathway, except when passing other users.
- Dogs must be under the owner's control at all times and must not interfere with or obstruct other pathway users.
Why keep your dog on a leash?
Safety first
Protecting your dog
- Prevent accidents: Leashing your dog prevents them from running into traffic or other hazardous situations.
- Avoid fights: Keeping your dog on a leash helps prevent altercations with other dogs and wildlife.
- Stay close: Leashes ensure your dog stays within your sight and control at all times.
Protecting others
- Prevent injuries: Even friendly dogs can accidentally knock over or scare children, elderly people, or those unfamiliar with dogs.
- Avoid allergies and phobias: Some people have allergies or fears of dogs. Keeping your dog leashed shows respect for others’ comfort and safety.
- Responsible pet ownership: Leashing your dog demonstrates responsible pet ownership and helps set a positive example in the community.
Legal requirements
Compliance with local laws
- Leash laws: Calgary is an "on-leash city", meaning that dogs must be on a leash unless they are on their own property or in an area that is designated by signs as an off-leash area.
- Public safety: Leash laws are in place to protect both dogs and people, ensuring that public spaces are safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Preventing legal issues
- Liability: If your dog causes an accident or injury while off-leash, you could be held legally responsible.
- Peace of mind: Keeping your dog on a leash can help avoid potential legal disputes and give you peace of mind when out in public.
Environmental protection
Respecting wildlife
- Protect local wildlife: Dogs off-leash can chase, injure, or kill wildlife, disrupting local ecosystems.
- Avoid disturbing habitats: Keeping your dog leashed helps protect natural habitats and ensures the safety of local flora and fauna.
Preserving natural areas
- Prevent damage: Off-leash dogs can trample plants, dig holes, and disturb natural areas. Leashing your dog helps preserve the environment for everyone to enjoy.
- Encourage responsible use: Respecting leash laws and natural spaces promotes responsible use of public and natural areas.
Environmental protection
Better behavior
- Reinforce training: Keeping your dog on a leash helps reinforce good behaviour and obedience training.
- Controlled socialization: Leashed interactions with other dogs and people are safer and more controlled, helping your dog learn appropriate behaviour.
Building trust
- Strengthen bond: Walking your dog on a leash can strengthen the bond between you and your pet, as you guide and protect them.
- Positive experiences: Leashed walks provide positive experiences and opportunities for training, enhancing your dog’s confidence and trust in you.
Off-Leash areas
While enjoying the off-leash area, please remember to:
- Keep your dog under control. Ensure they stay in your sight and come back when called.
- Be considerate of other dog owners. Do not let your dog bother other dogs or their owners.
- Clean up after your dog immediately. The fine for not doing so is $500.
- Dispose of poop bags in the appropriate receptacles.
Find an off-leash area
- Downloadable maps, by neighborhood of off-leash areas
- An interactive City of Calgary map of all off-leash areas
You may be interested in